Yaotongdian Point (EX-UE7 / Lumbar Pain Point)
Discover the exact location and acupressure method for Yaotongdian (EX-UE7 / Lumbar Pain Point). Learn its benefits for acute lumbar sprain, lumbar-leg pain, and dorsal hand swelling – the extraordinary point for lumbar pain – plus classic combinations for comprehensive treatment.
Indications
Relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, resolves stasis and relieves pain, activates blood and moves qi. Treats acute lumbar sprain, lumbar-leg pain, sprains, dorsal hand swelling and pain, and infantile convulsions.
Precise Location
On the dorsum of the hand, between the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal bones and between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones, at the midpoint of the line connecting the wrist crease and the metacarpophalangeal joints. Two points on each side.
Location Method
Sit upright or lie supine with the hand extended and palm facing down. On the dorsum of the hand, locate the points at the midpoint between the wrist crease and the metacarpophalangeal joints – one between the 2nd and 3rd metacarpals, and one between the 4th and 5th metacarpals. Two points on each side, four points in total.
Massage Method
Press and knead firmly with the thumb pad or fingertip for 3–5 minutes per session, 1–2 times daily – a strong local sore-distending sensation is optimal. Coordinate with slow lumbar movements during massage for enhanced effect. Therapeutic actions: Relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, resolves stasis and relieves pain, activates blood and moves qi.
Compatibility
Acute lumbar sprain: Combine with Weizhong (BL-40). Dorsal hand swelling and pain: Combine with Baxie (EX-UE9). Infantile convulsions: Combine with Shuigou (GV-26). Lumbar-leg pain: Combine with Shenshu (BL-23), Dachangshu (BL-25), and Weizhong (BL-40). Various sprains: Combine with Ashi points (local tender points) and Hegu (LI-4).
Efficacy & Actions
This is an extraordinary point located on the dorsum of the hand, between the 2nd and 3rd metacarpal bones and between the 4th and 5th metacarpal bones, at the midpoint of the line connecting the wrist crease and the metacarpophalangeal joints (two points on each side). It relaxes the sinews and unblocks the collaterals, resolves stasis and relieves pain, and activates blood and moves qi. It is an experienced effective point for treating acute lumbar sprain and lumbar-leg pain. First documented in the Zhenjiu Jingwai Qixue Zhiliao Jue (Treatment Methods for Extraordinary Points). "Yao" refers to the lumbar region; "Tong" means pain; "Dian" means point or pressure. Located on the dorsum of the hand, this point specifically treats lumbar pain and sprains – hence the name Yaotongdian (Lumbar Pain Point). Yaotongdian is a specific point for acute lumbar sprain, providing immediate relief for lumbar sprains and strains. It is often combined with Weizhong (BL-40) and Shuigou (GV-26).
Contraindications
Located on the dorsum of the hand – needling depth should be carefully controlled, generally 0.3–0.5 cun vertically, avoiding deep insertion. Moxibustion is permissible. Use with caution in pregnant women. Massage pressure should be firm but not excessively forceful, within the patient's tolerance.
